The Cleveland Browns’ Struggles: Injuries, Depth Issues, or Deeper Problems?
The Cleveland Browns entered the 2024 NFL season with high hopes, bolstered by a strong defensive unit and renewed optimism under head coach Kevin Stefanski. However, a string of disappointing performances has left the team with a 4-8 record, raising questions about what’s holding the Browns back. While injuries to key players have undeniably impacted the team, they’re only part of the story. A closer look reveals a combination of poor roster depth, questionable decision-making, and broader systemic issues contributing to their struggles.
The Injury Bug Bites Hard
Injuries have been a glaring issue for the Browns this season, particularly along the offensive line. Left tackle Dawand Jones’ season-ending fractured leg is the latest in a series of setbacks that have disrupted the team’s ability to protect the quarterback and establish a consistent running game. Center Ethan Pocic and guard Wyatt Teller have also missed time, leaving Cleveland scrambling to plug gaps with backups who lack the necessary experience or skill to compete at a high level  .
The absence of standout running back Nick Chubb, who suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier in the year, further exacerbates the situation. Without Chubb’s reliability in the backfield, the Browns have struggled to generate offensive rhythm.
Yet, injuries are part of the NFL. Every team deals with them, and the best organizations find ways to adapt. For the Browns, their inability to do so points to a lack of preparedness and depth, which raises questions about roster construction and player development.
Depth: The Missing Ingredient
The Browns’ depth issues have been painfully evident this season. While injuries have forced backups into starting roles, the team’s inability to maintain competitiveness in these scenarios highlights a broader problem: a shallow roster.
A key example is the offensive line. Beyond the starting five, Cleveland lacks reliable options, a surprising flaw given their emphasis on building a dominant line in recent years. Swing tackles and backup guards have struggled to step up, leading to breakdowns in protection and a compromised running game.
On the defensive side, the trade of Za’Darius Smith to the Detroit Lions has created a leadership void in the pass rush. While players like Ogbo Okoronkwo and rookie Isaiah McGuire are promising, they lack the experience to fill Smith’s shoes. Critics argue that the decision to trade Smith midseason signals a lack of commitment to competing in 2024, further undermining morale .
Coaching and Decision-Making Under Fire
Beyond injuries and depth, coaching decisions have come under scrutiny. Kevin Stefanski has faced criticism for questionable play-calling and an apparent inability to adjust to the team’s evolving needs. Offensive schemes have often left quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Deshaun Watson exposed, further magnifying the offensive line’s weaknesses.
The handling of Winston, in particular, has sparked debate. While he has had moments of brilliance, such as a 395-yard performance against the Saints, his inconsistency and tendency to commit turnovers have cost the Browns crucial opportunities. Some fans and analysts question whether sticking with Winston is the right move or if the team should explore alternative options, such as rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson .
Systemic Issues: A Longstanding Problem?
The Browns’ struggles this season are not isolated. They reflect a broader pattern of organizational instability that has plagued the franchise for years. Despite significant investments in talent, including blockbuster contracts for Deshaun Watson and Myles Garrett, Cleveland has failed to translate potential into consistent success.
A possible explanation lies in the front office’s approach to roster construction. While the team has prioritized star power, such as Watson and Garrett, it has seemingly neglected depth. The lack of quality backups and developmental players has left the team vulnerable when injuries strike.
Additionally, the franchise’s culture has been a point of contention. Critics argue that a losing mentality has persisted in Cleveland, making it difficult for the team to establish the accountability and resilience needed to overcome adversity.
What Needs to Change?
For the Browns to turn things around, they must address the root causes of their struggles.
1. Invest in Depth: The front office must prioritize building a more balanced roster. This means finding value in later draft rounds and free agency to bolster key positions, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines.
2. Evaluate Coaching: While Stefanski has had success in Cleveland, the team’s recent struggles raise questions about whether he is the right leader for this roster. A thorough evaluation of the coaching staff is necessary to ensure the team has the right strategies and leadership in place.
3. Foster a Winning Culture: Changing the team’s culture requires a top-down approach. From ownership to the locker room, the Browns must commit to accountability, resilience, and a focus on long-term success rather than quick fixes.
4. Quarterback Stability: Deciding on a long-term solution at quarterback is critical. Whether it’s sticking with Watson, developing Thompson-Robinson, or exploring other options, the Browns need clarity and consistency at the game’s most important position.
Looking Ahead
The Browns’ season is far from over, but their 4-8 record reflects a team in need of answers. Injuries have undeniably played a role in their struggles, but they’re not the sole factor. Depth issues, coaching decisions, and systemic challenges all contribute to the team’s current predicament.
As Cleveland prepares for the remainder of the season, including a tough matchup against the Denver Broncos, the focus must shift from immediate results to laying the groundwork for sustained success. Whether they can rise to the occasion—or continue to falter—will define not only this season but the franchise’s future.
The Browns have the talent to compete. The question is whether they have the vision and determination to overcome the obstacles in their way.
